Mets host family of Jackie Robinson on MLB's annual Jackie Robinson Day

Rachel Robinson, left, widow of Jackie Robinson, and daughter Sharon pose for a photograph with a plaque honoring Jackie on Jackie Robinson Day, Sunday, April 15, 2018, in New York, before a baseball game between the New York Mets and the Milwaukee Brewers.(Photo: (AP Photo/Kathy Willens))

NEW YORK — The Mets and Brewers honored Jackie Robinson on Sunday as part of MLB's annual Jackie Robinson Day celebrations. All players wore No. 42 --which is retired-- in honor of Robinson, and the Mets wore patches on their hats.

Robinson's widow, Jackie, and his children, Sharon and David, attended the game.

“It gives us a chance to remember our favorite moments with him," Sharon said before the game. "You all have us reflect backwards AND to the present and that’s important, and we like to think how the legacy is carried forward over the time.”

Sharon said she is pleased with MLB's efforts to incorporate more minorities into the sport, and the attempt to add more minorities and women into prominent positions.

“I’m encouraged not just by the uptick (of African-Americans in baseball) but by the fact we are seeing some of the programs producing players that are going into the draft from our academies and our RBI program," Sharon said. "That’s encouraging."

She added: "We should see changes with women and minorities in the next five to 10 years. I think there are great efforts going forward to make that thrust.”

While minority baseball players have not been as vocal in championing for social justice as NFL and NBA players, Sharon believes it's more difficult for MLB players to do so.

“I don’t think they have much choice. They are in the minority," Sharon said. "Football and basketball you have a group and therefore you can take a group action. Players, if they speak out individually, they could be the only African American on their team and it could be difficult spot for them to be in so they do it in different kinds of way."

Sharon is pulling for ex-Yankees and current Marlins CEO Derek Jeter as he attempts to turn the Marlins into a perennial contender.

“I’m thrilled. He’s going to have a hard little time there for a while. Miami is a tough market but I know he will do well," Sharon said. "I believe in him and he felt this direction was the way they needed to go and he’s going to make it happen. Very exciting.”

Briefs

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